The New Year has just begun and already headlines are sending you mixed messages as to whether homes sales are up or down, or if it's a seller's or buyer's market. How do you cut through the noise? First, talk to your realtor. Second, keep the following tips in mind as we head into the mid-winter market.

Keep Your Perspective

Whether you're a buyer or seller, remember that real estate is hyperlocal. So ignore the national headlines and focus on your market. And by that, I mean, what's happening in your neighborhood and even more to the point, what's the price point in the area. In the Chicago area, real estate can change block to block.

Why Wait Until February?

Forget that old advice about waiting until after February to enter the market. January is a great time to catch the wave of people who want a new home by the end of spring. Chances are – whether you're a buyer or seller – you'll have less competition if you're active in January, so both a listing and offer will stand out. If you wait until February and you might find yourself sitting on the sidelines.

Pricing 101

My number one goal is to help you have a successful sale, which starts with listing your home at the correct price. During this time I'll be your advocate, counselor and truth teller. We'll work together to determine the listing price, but there are some basic rules to keep in mind to ensure the process goes easier than you expected:

• Someone could have the most beautiful home, but if the property has challenges (like it abuts power lines) while a neighbor's home doesn't, then it's comparing apples to oranges.

• If a home doesn't have any showings in a few weeks, it's time to consider a price change.

• There's an old adage that remains true – 14 days 14 showings – whichever comes first. Then, if you don't have a contract, lower the price.

The First Offer Really is the Best

Generally, people have been looking for some time before they see your home. So, when your property comes on market and they make an offer, those people are serious. Of course you can, and should, counsel your broker in navigating negotiations to make sure it's a strong offer and all parties are satisfied. Everyone wants to come out feeling like there's been a fair deal.

At Baird & Warner, we're focused on making it easier in 2017 for buyers looking in your neighborhood to find your home. With our Exclusive Mobile App, your home will be at the fingertips of any homebuyer with a smartphone or tablet GPS. In fact, I'll know immediately if someone is interested in your property because your listing on the Baird & Warner mobile app will be synced to me. And since the Exclusive Mobile App also syncs to your Baird & Warner My Real Estate Portal account, the minute I receive feedback, so will you. Staying connected with me and your listing has never been easier.

Baird & Warner Featured in Chicago Agent's 2017 Predictions Issue

When Chicago Agent wanted to know what was on tap for the housing market in 2017, the publication knew just who to talk to – Baird & Warner's Tripti Kasal, vice president of sales. An expert in Chicago's real estate industry for more than 20 years, Kasal shared her insights in this issue, weighing in on the strength of the job market and future role of virtual reality technology to help consumers make a buying decision.